OWENSBORO, Ky. (9/6/13) - The RiverPark Center will host the national "Texaco Country Showdown" Kentucky state finals on Friday, Sept. 6. According to the organization's employee, Angel Mlecki, it is the largest and longest running country music talent contest in the nation.

"Many contestants have came through and made an impact on country music," Mlecki said.

All of this begins with local competitions in almost every state. The winning act from each local contest advances to the state competition. Each state winner will compete in one of five regional finals for a Grand Prize of $100,000 and the title of "Best New Act in Country Music."

SurfKY News spoke to one of the Kentucky state finalists who is no stranger to talent competitions. Chris Rose of Pineville, KY, recently won the Corbin area local competition. Rose says he is excited to perform in Owensboro for a chance at the state title and $1,000.

Chris's brother, Jimmy Rose, is also a country music singer who is currently a contestant on NBC's: America's Got Talent. Although Chris Rose has big shoes to fill, he feels like he is on the right path.

"Well, Jimmy was a contestant in the country showdown last year," Rose said. "And he also won his local competition."

According to Chris Rose, all the two brothers have ever wanted to do is pursue a career in country music.

"We're getting there slowly but surely," Rose said as he laughed. "I love my brother and wish him the best. As long as we keep the 'Big Man' on our side, we'll both go far."

If you would like to see Rose and the other state finalists perform, tickets are on sale now at the RPC box office.